The power of a Christ-centered school transformed Sao Asato’s life in ways she never imagined. Leaving her home in Japan, quitting her job as a teacher, and flying across the world to join a school she had only heard of through a friend might sound like a leap of faith—but for Sao, it was the beginning of a life-changing adventure.
At 26 years old, Sao felt called to something different. She was eager to grow in new ways and find a place where her potential could truly shine. That place turned out to be Cumorah Academy, where she enrolled in the Leadership & Personal Development and English courses. But her journey wasn’t free of fear and uncertainty.
“At first, I wasn’t sure how to feel,” Sao admits. “I’m not a member of the Church, and I’m the only Japanese on campus.”
That sense of being different is something many students experience when they first arrive. After all, stepping into a new environment far from home can be intimidating. But the moment Sao set foot on campus, everything changed.
“People were fantastic! They were telling me, ‘Welcome to Cumorah Academy!’ Then, I feel part of it! My fears disappeared.”
That’s the power of a Christ-centered school—it embraces each individual with love, encouragement, and a genuine sense of belonging. At Cumorah, it doesn’t matter where you’re from, what your background is, or what faith you hold. You are welcomed, supported, and inspired to grow.
The Power of a Christ-Centered School Builds Confidence
Before Cumorah, Sao often struggled to speak up. Like many people, she worried about saying the wrong thing or making a mistake. Even when she had great ideas or valuable insights, fear held her back.
“I was afraid to share my opinions and feelings with others,” she explains.
But through the leadership classes, something started to shift. Week by week, Sao gained more courage. She learned how to lead not just with skills, but with heart. She learned how to listen, how to express herself, and how to lift others up in the process.
“Now I’m more willing to share my feelings,” she says. “Step by step, I’m learning to take on new challenges.”
At Cumorah Academy, students aren’t just taught leadership in theory—they live it. Every student is guided to create a Life Vision, a powerful written statement of their dreams, values, and purpose. It’s more than a goal—it’s a commitment to a meaningful life. For Sao, this was a breakthrough.
With the help of an Advisory Couple—mentors who work with each student personally—Sao shaped a Life Vision that gave her direction and strength. Knowing someone believed in her made a big difference. Having that support reminded her that she didn’t have to figure everything out alone.
Having someone who deeply cares about you and is eager to see you conquer all your dreams is a blessing.
Writing a Life Vision is more than just listing goals—it’s an act of hope. It means putting your dreams into words and committing to pursuing them. While no plan is set in stone, doing nothing guarantees no change. For Sao, putting her Life Vision on paper was the first step toward creating the future she wanted.
The Power of a Christ-Centered School Fosters Lifelong Friendships
One of the most powerful parts of Sao’s experience was the sense of community she found. Surrounded by students from all over the world, she learned how diverse, yet united, we can be when we strive to grow together.
On campus, students don’t just attend classes—they share meals, serve in the community, celebrate together, and support one another through every challenge. It’s a place where strangers become friends and friends become family.
“I made a lot of new friends,” Sao says, “and I want to keep in contact with them for life.”
At Cumorah, friendships are more than social connections. They are sources of strength. For Sao, maintaining those bonds is more than a desire—it’s a commitment. Because those relationships helped her become who she is now: a more open, more confident, and more connected version of herself.
And as she finishes her time at Cumorah, Sao leaves with more than memories. She leaves with a clear vision, strong friendships, and the kind of confidence that can carry her through any challenge.
With her Life Vision in hand and faith, there is nothing she can’t do.
You can hear Sao’s words about her experience at our campus and the lessons she has learned:
Final Thoughts: A Life Transformed by Love and Purpose
Sao’s story reminds us that real growth begins when we step into the unknown with faith. It takes courage to leave behind the familiar. But what you gain—confidence, connection, purpose—is more than worth it.
The power of a Christ-centered school lies in its ability to see each student not just as they are, but as they can become. With Christ at the center, love becomes the language. Growth becomes the goal. And every student is seen, heard, and inspired to rise.
At Cumorah Academy, students like Sao learn that they are more than their fears. They are leaders in the making, ready to shape their own lives—and the world around them.
Are you ready to discover what’s possible for your life? Apply to Cumorah Academy today and experience the power of a Christ-centered leadership academy.
Written by Fernando L. Ferreira Jr.
Photos by Julieta Ramirez
Supervision by Kamila Uberto Fullmer
